Hiking

There are literally hundreds of hiking trails in Fairmont Hot Springs, Invermere and the Columbia Valley which cover thousands of miles and can take you into spectacular country with stunning views.

Pick your choice of mountain ranges…the Rockies or the Purcells, meander along the Valley floor or jaunt up the Hoodoos. Wherever you go you will discover incredible views & vistas, get in touch with nature and then soak in the hot springs!

Fairmont Hot Springs and the Columbia Valley provides a host of hiking opportunities for all ages and abilities with an abundance of stellar views – from lakes, rivers and wetlands to wildlife, beaches and of course the spectacular mountain ranges of the Rocky and Purcell Mountains. Here are our top 5 hiking trails in Fairmont Hot Springs and the Columbia Valley

Trail Peak provides detailed information for hikes across the Columbia Valley. Tip: Search on their site with the nearest town as Invermere.

Only a 5 minute drive south of Fairmont’s main street, the Spirit Trail continues from Columbia River Road down the east side of Columbia Lake to Canal Flats. This moderate trail is suitable for all abilities – continue on the double track trail or deviate on one of the single tracks trails through the Ponderosa Pine, Douglas fir and Golden Western Larch. Great beach spots to enjoy a picnic along the shores of the pristine Columbia Lake. Once used by the Ktunaxa people for hunting and trading goods up and down the valley this near wild trail is perfect for a short stroll or day hike.

3. Hoodoos

Located on the south side of Fairmont the Hoodoo trail is an easy hike for all the family. Approximately 3km this hike offers spectacular views of Columbia Lake and valley from atop the impressive hoodoo rock formations. The trail head is easy to find – 2 kms up Westside Road from Highway 93/95. Starting off with a moderate uphill climb along double track the trail soon becomes single track through sweet smelling Sagebush. Stay left at all junctions until you reach the Hoodoos – make sure to keep children and dogs close by as the cliffs are steep.

4. Swansea Mountain

15 minutes from Fairmont Hot Springs Swansea Mountain is a well marked hiking and downhill biking trail. From the bottom of the mountain a 4.5km loop trail provides fantastic viewpoints. This steep trail can be quite challenging for some. A 15 minute hike from the top parking lot is suitable for all ages although 4 wheel drive is recommended for the drive up to the parking lot as the road can be rough. View Swansea Map

5. Old Coach Road

20 minutes from Fairmont Hot Springs along highway 93/95 the Old Coach Road is a 9km hiking and biking trail which leads to Radium Hot Springs. Suitable for all ages and abilities This historic route was well traveled in the 1920s. The trail winds along the bench lands above the river, with spectacular views of the wetlands below. View Trail Map

Fairmont Creek Vacation Rentals offer fully equipped vacation homes and cabins in 3 British Columbia destinations. Fairmont Hot Springs & Panorama Mountain Resort in the Columbia Valley – a 3-hour drive from Calgary and also on Vancouver Island at Sooke less than an hour from Victoria.